Colorado Rockies injury news: Tom Murphy takes part in drills

Prior to the Colorado Rockies opening their three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday night at Coors Field, catcher Tom Murphy took part in throwing drills and batting practice.

Approximately five hours before game time, Murphy was crouched behind home plate in catching gear. He made numerous throws to third base and second base after receiving a simulated pitch. He then fielded ground balls rolled in front of home plate and made the throw to first base.

The 26-year-old Murphy also took batting practice prior to the game with the third group of Rockies hitters.

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Murphy has not seen action during the regular season while recovering from a fractured right forearm that occurred when he came into contact with Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo’s bat during a throw to second base on a steal attempt in a spring training game.

Colorado manager Bud Black said he liked what he saw from Murphy on Friday at Coors Field.

"“Murph is getting there. He’s getting close,” Black said. “He’s doing well. He has to build his arm strength up. The hitting part of it is fine. Legs are good. We just have to make good his arm is built up. That’s a little bit of an issue because he hasn’t been able to throw for a long time. We need to build the arm strength but he is doing great.”"

Murphy’s throws to all three bases seemed crisp and on target, a good sign considering the long layoff he has endured with his injury.

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While Murphy has been on the shelf, Colorado has relied on Tony Wolters, Dustin Garneau and Ryan Hanigan behind the plate. Garneau is currently in Triple-A while Wolters and Hanigan split duties at catcher.

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